Blue Mass
Active and retired local, state, and federal law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency personnel will be recognized for their faithful commitment and self-sacrifice at the Blue Mass, which will be celebrated by Bishop James Ruggieri on Sunday, September 29, at the Basilica of Ss. Peter & Paul, 122 Ash Street in Lewiston.
People of all faiths are invited to attend the Mass and to join in expressing gratitude to the men and women who work to keep our communities safe. Members of the public safety community are encouraged to attend in uniform and to bring their families with them. Elected officials who serve at the federal, state, and local level are also expected to be in attendance.
During the Mass, blessings will be bestowed upon all who contribute to the public health and safety of Maine, and prayers will be offered for those who have given their lives in the line of duty. The readers and gift bearers at the Mass will be members of the public safety community, and a multi-jurisdictional honor guard will post the colors.
The Blue Mass (referring to the blue uniforms that law enforcement and other first responders often wear) dates back to 1934 and is a venerable tradition in many dioceses. The events of September 11, 2001, served as the impetus for the Diocese of Portland to institute the Blue Mass in Maine.
This Mass calls forth in us a greater awareness of, and gratitude for, the lives of those who serve us so faithfully. Our lives are a gift from God, given to us that we might in turn give our lives in service to Him and to others. This truth is one virtually ingrained into the lives of our police, fire and rescue personnel. Day in and day out they put their lives on the line for us: “Greater love has no man than this: that a man lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13).
Through the Years
